NURS 2516 Clinical Medications Worksheets

(You will need to make additional copies of these forms)

Generic Trade Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

Name Name mineral and electrolyte 30 ml Po q D PRN
magnesium  Phillips Milk of replacements/supplements
Magnesia , laxatives
hydroxide 
(41.7% Mg; 
34.3 mEq 
Mg/g)
Peak Onset Duration For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or
Unknown 3-6 hr unknown solutions

Mechanism of action and indications Nursing Implications (what to focus on)

(Why med ordered) Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Constipation none
Are osmotically active in GI tract, drawing water into the lumen and
causing peristalsis Common side effects
diarrhea

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal
medicines (ask patient specifically)
none
Nursing Process- Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment)
Assess patient for abdominal distention, presence of
bowel sounds, and usual pattern of bowel function
Assess color, consistency, and amount of stool
produced
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
Magnesium levels may be higher, and electrolyte levels
may be different
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
Advise patient not to take this medication within 2 hr of taking
other medications
Advise patient that laxatives should be used only for short-
term therapy
Encourage patient to use other forms of bowel regulation,
such as increasing bulk in the diet, fluid intake, and mobility.
Normal bowel habits are individualized; frequency of bowel
movement may vary from 3 times/day to 3 times/wk
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
med? Relief of gastric pain and
Administer on empty stomach for more irritation
rapid results. Follow all oral laxative Passage of a soft, formed
doses with a full glass of liquid to prevent bowel movement, usually within
dehydration and for faster effect. Do not 3-6 hr
administer at bedtime or late in the day Prevention and treatment of
Electrolyte imbalance, or no longer magnesium deficiency
constipated